The Opinions of Visitors Towards Ecotourism Attractions Components in Namom District, Sonkhla Province
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Abstract
This research aimed to study visitors' opinions on the components of ecotourism attractions in Namom District, Songkhla Province, and to study management approaches towards the components of ecotourism attractions. The sample group was 395 tourists randomly selected through an accidental sampling process and 31 volunteer visitors who visited three tourist attractions: Kuan Khan Lao, Suan Lung Phan, and Father's Farm. The questionnaire was used as a research tool to study the components of tourist attractions in four aspects: attractiveness, accessibility, facilities, and tourist activities. Data was analyzed using the SPSS statistical program. Research statistics included percentage, mean, standard deviation, F-test, and t-test. The qualitative research used a purposive sampling method to select key informants from focus group discussions and interviews with the community leaders, head of local government organization, and community tourism entrepreneurs with opinions based on the components of ecotourism attractions in the Namom District area.
The research results revealed that visitors’ opinions toward Father's Farm were at a very high level, while Kuan Khan Lao and Suan Lung Phan were at a high level. It was also found that the attractiveness and tourist activities of the ecotourism destinations were rated at a very high level. When comparing the differences in the components of ecotourism attractions among the three destinations, it was found that the components of attractiveness, facilities, and tourist activities were significantly different at the .05 level. However, there was no significant difference in accessibility. Key management guidelines for ecotourism attractions include the provision of adequate facilities, safe and accessible public transportation, clear signage of tourist attractions, souvenir shops, and accommodations for tourists.
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